What Are Some Adaptations of the Fennec Fox?
Some adaptations of the fennec fox include its large ears, its fur and its unique kidneys. Because the fennec fox is native to the desert environment of northern Africa, it has learned to cope with the heat by becoming nocturnal. During the day it stays in it burrow.
The fennec fox’s large ears help it to stay cool by radiating away some of its body heat. Furthermore, these ears give the fox a keen sense of hearing, helping it to locate rodents and insects on which it feeds underground.
Another important characteristic is the fur that covers the entire fox, even the bottom of its feet. This not only keeps burning sand away from sensitive areas, but the furry feet also act as snowshoes and help the fox move quickly over soft sand. Rather than conducting heat, the fox’s thick fur coat acts as an insulator against both the heat of the day and the cold of the night. The light color reflects the sunlight.
The fennec fox has unique kidneys that conserve water. This helps to keep the fox from dehydrating during especially dry periods. It can get enough moisture to survive from its food if there is no water available.
